I'm a guy that's got a lot going for me- I'm smart, good looking, confident and I've got a great future ahead of me. I live in New York City, so I'm surrounded by forward women. Something that comes across my mind often is how to let someone down gently if they're interested in me. 

"The key to that question is to always take personal responsibility," says Howard Rossen, a Licensed L.C.S.W. based in New York. "The truth is that this is your own issue, and if you can carefully frame your comments as such, hopefully the injured party (he or she that is being rejected) will be able to hear what you have to say."

In interviewing other college age kids from all walks of life, I've actually found that guys are the ones that are better at letting someone down gently. 

"To be honest with you, honesty itself is the best thing," says David Essons, a 22 year-old from Massachusetts.  "If I lie to them and they find out, it's going to hurt them more." 

"I'm talking to someone right now, I'm sorry," is what Tegan Flanders, 23 would say. "I'm kind of involved. I've got this thing going with somebody and I apologize. Normally I'd take you up on it but I think the other girl might be a little jealous."

"I don't know how to let anyone down gently," says Andrea Gomes, 20. "I like to slowly ignore and if you don't get it…I just stop talking to you."

By Chris Gampat